The Spokesman of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Otunba Stephen Olukayode Ogundipe, has issued a strong warning to the public against the dangerous practice of scooping fuel whenever spillages occur.
Otunba Ogundipe gave the warning in Lagos while reacting to the Apapa incident and recurring ones across the state, where residents, rather than prioritising safety, rush to scoop petroleum products from fallen tankers or leaking pipelines.
According to the lawmaker, fuel scooping poses grave threats to human lives, public safety, and the environment.
He stressed that petroleum products are highly flammable and that even the smallest spark from mobile phones, vehicles, or nearby generators can trigger explosions with devastating consequences.
“The loss of lives recorded in past fuel spillage incidents is a painful reminder that no amount of fuel is worth the life of any citizen,” Otunba. Ogundipe stated. “It is unfortunate that despite repeated warnings, some individuals still engage in this extremely risky act.”
Otunba Ogundipe, who represents Oshodi-Isolo Constituency-01 and also serves as Chairman of the House Committee on Information Strategy and Security, outlined several implications of fuel scooping, including loss of life through fire outbreaks and explosions, severe injuries that may result in permanent disability, destruction of nearby properties, environmental pollution, and disruption of economic activities in affected communities.
He added that such incidents also place avoidable pressure on emergency responders and healthcare facilities.
He further warned that beyond the safety risks, fuel scooping is illegal and offenders may face prosecution under existing laws governing public safety and environmental protection.
Otunba urged residents to immediately vacate spillage sites and alert relevant authorities such as the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency LASEMA, the Fire Service, and security agencies.
The lawmaker called on community leaders, transport unions, and youth groups to intensify public sensitisation on the dangers associated with fuel spillages, emphasising that collective responsibility is required to prevent avoidable tragedies.
He reaffirmed the commitment of the Lagos State House of Assembly to strengthening policies and public awareness campaigns aimed at protecting lives and ensuring the safety of residents across the state.
Otunba Ogundipe concluded by appealing to the masses to choose safety over momentary gain, noting that responsible conduct during emergencies is crucial to building a safer Lagos for all.
Reporting By Taoreed Abdullahi